Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is an operation to tighten abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat. Dr. Pugash will examine you and suggest an operative plan to provide the best possible result.

Some Vancouver tummy tuck patients need only a mini-tummy tuck, in which the surgery is limited to the area below the navel. However, most patients benefit from a complete tummy tuck since the entire abdomen between the ribs and the pubic area usually needs correction. To learn more about tummy tuck surgery, compare the before-and-after abdominoplasty photos and explore the information below.Patient 8: 37 years old, 3 children, 5’2″, 157 lbs. Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), ultrasonic-assisted liposuction back, hips, and thighs.

Abdominoplasty in Vancouver

Dr. Eric Pugash usually performs tummy tuck as an outpatient procedure. Occasionally, however, tummy tuck may require a one-night stay at the clinic.

Most tummy tucks begin with liposuction to reduce excess fat accumulations. Dr. Pugash uses standard or power-assisted liposuction to reduce fat accumulations in the waist and hips. Although liposuction and the subsequent abdominoplasty reduce some of the excess fat, Dr. Pugash cautions his Vancouver tummy tuck patients that these are not weight loss procedures. Patients should try to lose most of their excess weight before seeking liposuction or tummy tuck – procedures that will complement the weight loss by adding contour and definition to the body.

After completing liposuction Dr. Pugash makes an incision across the lower abdomen, passing low over the pubic area and angling up over the hips. The abdominal apron is peeled up to the bottom of the rib cage. Loose abdominal muscles are then tightened with sturdy stitches. The apron is then pulled down, excess skin and fat are removed (usually the entire roll between the navel and the pubic area), and the abdomen is carefully stitched up. The tummy tuck Vancouver patient is left with a fine scar around the navel, and a scar across the lower abdomen that will be hidden by most clothing.

After Your Tummy Tuck Surgery

Patients can expect to wear a compression garment, or girdle, for about a month following surgery. The abdomen is quite tight for the first week or so, and most patients will note moderate discomfort during this time. Many individuals will return to normal activities of daily living after 2 to 3 weeks. Strenuous activity is avoided for 6 to 8 weeks to allow the newly tightened muscles to heal.

Possible complications of abdominoplasty surgery include reactions to the anesthetic, infection, bleeding, inaccurate placement of the navel, fluid accumulations, skin loss, irregularities from the liposuction, and an unsatisfactory aesthetic result. Some patients will require a revision, or touch-up, to refine the results. The vast majority of Dr. Pugash’s Vancouver abdominoplasty patients, however, do not experience any complications, recover quickly, and are extremely satisfied with their results.

What Can Tummy Tuck Surgery Do for Me?

For many people diet and exercise are not enough to tone the stomach. Tummy tuck surgery (also called abdominoplasty) is designed to improve the appearance of a protruding or sagging abdomen. The procedure will repair separated abdominal muscles, remove areas of localized fat and eliminate excess skin. After tummy tuck you can enjoy a flatter, firmer stomach and a leaner profile.

Who is a Candidate for Abdominoplasty?

Suitable candidates for abdominoplasty are individuals who have loose abdominal skin and fat from the following:

Pregnancy

Significant weight fluctuation

Aging

Genetics

In general, candidates should be in good health, have reasonable expectations of the results and be within 25 pounds of their ideal weight. Abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure and will produce the best results for individuals who are not significantly overweight. Also, women who are considering future pregnancies should postpone tummy tuck, as pregnancy can reverse the effects of the procedure.

How Much Does Tummy Tuck Cost?

The cost of tummy tuck depends on several factors, including the specific approach that Dr. Pugash takes. For example, full tummy tuck may cost more than a less-extensive variation of the procedure called mini tummy tuck. If you’d like more specific information about tummy tuck cost, please contact our office at (604) 522-5199.

Tummy Tuck FAQs

Dr. Pugash answers the following tummy tuck questions most frequently:

Do I need tummy tuck or liposuction?

Liposuction is purely a fat-removal technique. Liposuction can be used to remove a small area of fat. However, if you have other issues such as loose skin or separated abdominal muscles, you will need tummy tuck surgery. Dr. Pugash will perform a physical examination during your consultation and advise you of the best approach for your personal needs and goals.

Will I have a scar?

Every surgical procedure leaves some degree of scarring. Dr. Pugash will place the incision as low as possible on the abdomen so it will usually be hidden beneath underwear or a bathing suit (but not necessarily a bikini!). Also, he uses advanced techniques to minimize scarring and will provide a scar treatment product that you will apply after your surgery.

When can I return to work?

In general, tummy tuck patients return to work after approximately three to four weeks if they have a sedentary job. Patients with physically demanding jobs that require bending or lifting may need to recover for longer before they can return to work.

Will my results be permanent?

As long as you maintain your weight with healthy diet and exercise habits, you will be able to enjoy your tummy tuck results. If you gain a significant amount of weight or become pregnant, your abdominal muscles will stretch, your skin will loosen and you will develop excess fat.

Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation Today

If you are struggling with excess skin and fatty tissue in the stomach area, schedule an appointment with Dr. Pugash and explore your tummy tuck options. During your consultation, Dr. Pugash will also discuss other body contouring treatments, such as liposuction and mommy makeover in Vancouver. To book an appointment and begin your aesthetic transformation journey, call Dr. Pugash’s plastic surgery Vancouver offices at (604) 522-5199.

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Patient Reviews

I recently had an abdominalplasty done by Dr. Pugash. I am extremely happy with the results, just after 2 months. He is an excellent surgeon and takes the time to answer all of your questions. The staff is very pleasant. I trusted Dr. Pugash to do what he thought needed to be done and he exceeded my expectations. I also didn't feel much pain at all after the surgery. It took me a month to stand upright fully, and that was uncomfortable but it is an extensive surgery so it is important to give yourself time to heal and follow his instructions. I highly recommend him.

Anonymous

I had an augmentation with a lift in Aug. 2016. I was very pleased with my first consultation as Dr. Pugash was precise and very thorough. He and his team present with nothing less than professional conduct, quality care, and amazing skill which resulted in my beautiful results. Highly rated and recommended.

Dr. Pugash has built a busy cosmetic surgery practice that thrives on the referrals of satisfied patients. He and his staff take pride in their friendly office atmosphere, thorough patient education, and meticulous care both before and after surgery.